About the course

About the course

This exciting programme enables students to improve the lives of people living with pain. Beginning with the socio-economic impact and moving from acute to chronic pain states before arriving at more complex pain conditions and interventions, this programme develops the knowledge and core skills required of an advanced pain practitioner. Delivered via an online learning environment, additional workshops and discussions support students on their journey towards making a real difference for people living with pain. With innovative modules on neuromodulation and pain in the community, students will be prepared to shape the future of pain management – anywhere in the world.

Application dates:
Close: 28 July 2017
Optional qualifications: This degree is also available as a PG Diploma and a PG Certificate with fees set accordingly.
Fees note: Fees for flexible, modular study are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session.

Degree Information

This higher degree is aimed at clinical professionals from all backgrounds involved in the delivery of acute, chronic, and integrated pain services in primary or secondary care. Combining cutting-edge research with an international reputation for clinical excellence, the UCL Pain Management MSc is ideal for anyone wanting to improve the lives of people living with pain while also accelerating their own career.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of eight core modules (120 credits), and a research dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, eight core modules) is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, four core modules) is offered.

Core modules

Introduction to Pain: Economics, Evidence Delivery (15 credits)

Acute Pain (15 credits)

Chronic Pain (15 credits)

Pain in Cancer Patients (15 credits)

Headache, Paediatric Pain & Abdominopelvic Pain (15 credits)

Strategies for the Self-Management of Pain (15 credits)

Neuromodulation (15 credits)

Pain in the Community (15 credits)

Dissertation/report

Successful completion of the MSc requires a 5,000- to 8,000-word dissertation on a topic that is relevant to the candidate's own clinical practice and has been covered, at least superficially, at some point in the programme. The options for the dissertation will be discussed with each student but can include, where possible, joining clinical research at the UCLH Pain Management Centre, study in-depth of topics, preparing for higher (doctoral) research, etc. Students will have two supervisors and a mentor.

Why study this degree at UCL?

UCL is one of the world’s very best universities, consistently placed in the top 10 in worldrankings. The University College London Hospital (UCLH) Pain Management Centre is a clinical and research leader with expertise in headache, abdominopelvic pain, and neuromodulation. Online interactive learning material is supplemented by videos and online discussions in which students can participate from all over the world. Assessments aim to develop the clinical application of theoretical knowledge thus improving care for people living with pain. At the end of this programme students will be well-equipped to positively impact the lives of people living with pain.

Application and next steps

Applications

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

Who can apply?

This programme is ideal for any professional hoping to advance their career in pain management including:

Nurses

Physiotherapists

Occupational therapists

General Practitioners

Junior Doctors

Osteopaths

Biokineticists

What are we looking for?

In addition to the eligiblity criteria (above) it is desirable that applicants can demonstrate:

A thoughtful and empathetic approach to patient care

An inquisitive, solution-orientated approach to complex problems

Experience of reflective practice and self-insight

An understanding of the importance of evidence-based practice

A passion for improving the lives of people living with pain and enthusiasm for deepening their knowledge of the field.